Home Remedies for Hives

Hives are a skin condition that is a result of an allergy. The allergy can be caused by foods, medications or environmental elements that cause irritation and inflammation to the skin. There are certain foods that cause hives in many people, including fish, milk products, preservatives and other food additives and nuts. Penicillin and aspirin are also common causes of allergies, which may result in hives. Stress, abrasions and insect bites may also cause hives to appear.

How Hives Affect The Skin

Hives occur when blood plasma leaks into the skin. Allergens can cause this to happen, as can the ingestion of certain foods that a person may not ordinarily be allergic to. Strawberries, for example, can cause cells to release histamine, which is an element found in many allergens. The allergic reaction causes the skin to raise into a swollen area, often called a wheal or a welt. Hives can vary in size from approximately 1 centimeter to as large as 10 to 12 inches in diameter.

Herbal Home Remedies for Hives

Drinking herbal teas have been reported to be successful in relieving some of the symptoms of hives, especially peppermint, chamomile, passion flower and catnip teas. Some herbalists recommend making a poultice of chickweed and applying it to the affected areas. The leaves and bark of the red alder tree can also be boiled to make a strong tea, which contains tannin. Tannin is said to have very beneficial aspects for reducing inflammation, due to its astringent qualities.

The removal of the source of allergens can be very helpful in treating hives. Ceasing to buy known food allergens or even suspected or common food allergens, may alleviate the problem. Regulating the surrounding temperature may also help, as extreme variations and sweating can cause the appearance of hives. Placing a cold compress on the irritated areas will reduce swelling and numb the pain and will reduce inflammation as well.

One of the best home remedies for hives is Calamine lotion. Calamine lotion is a product that has been used for many years in the treatment of hives. This product is known to relieve the itching and is also helpful in slowing the inflammation from hives. Milk of Magnesia is reported to be useful in treating hives as well. Taking a warm bath with ½ cup of both cornstarch and baking soda is said to have positive results. Taking a cold bath or shower and sitting in front of a fan can also alleviate the symptoms of hives.

A less common cause of hives for some people are emotional changes that affect the nerves and blood pressure. These cathartics can produce the same effects as other stimuli in the body, including allergens. While this may occur less often, the symptoms and discomfort can be just as troubling for a person as the other more obvious causes of hives. You can also get additional home remedies for hives at MyHomeRemedies.net.

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